For three escapist days away from the cold—and maybe the kids—head west. An hour-by-hour guide to San Diego’s old-school charms and sophisticated new offerings, including where to stay, hike and dig into the country’s best Mexican food.

For a winning Southern getaway, skip the obvious destinations and check out the renaissance brewing in Birmingham. Here, a three-day guide to the tastiest barbecue, hidden-gem bars and history-altering landmarks